You probably know the challenges all too well: poor coordination, late-stage firestopping considerations, redesigns, and rework, to name just a few.
The Golden Principles help to address these challenges by providing simple recommendations for MEP designers and contractors to plan service penetrations across compartmentation lines correctly... the first time around!
Simply complete the form below to access the Golden Principles for Designing BWICs guide.
Ensuring Firestopping is Practical to Install On Site
Unfortunately, what may look compliant on paper may not always be practical to install on site – factors such as insufficient access or spacing can make firestopping even more challenging.
This guidance document helps prevent this by recommending spacing around services to facilitate the installation of tested solutions.
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01 | Spacing of Services
From page 5, we explain the definitions of different service types and emphasise the importance of spacing.
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02 | Spacing of Apertures
From page 19, we review the key rules for
spacing and sizing of apertures. -
03 | Maximum Aperture Sizes
From page 21, we look at maximum aperture sizes for flexible and rigid walls, shaft wall, white wall, and other wall and floor systems.
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04 | Types of Insulation
We provide an overview of the types and thicknesses of insulation tested on different pipes from page 38.
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05 | Service Supports
Here, we explore the ‘400mm from the face of the seal’ rule, and what material a service support should be.
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06 | Acoustic
Page 44 introduces the QuelStop Fire Stop System Acoustic Report
Key Changes to Version 2
Based on customer feedback, the document has been updated with more detailed guidance and explanations to encourage coordination and best practices regarding spacing, apertures, and the design of firestopping in buildings.
Full Service Type Definitions
Special Considerations/Exceptions, including new explanations for sleeved gas pipes, refrigerant services, grouped services, plastic vent ducts, and cluster arrangements.
Direct Seals Guidance, including 100mm seal-to-seal guidance, exceptions, and structural considerations.
Expanded and Clarified Explanations of Actual Spacing, with visuals to explain actual spacing, minimum spacing, installation allowance, and other considerations.
More White Wall Guidance
NEW Guidance for Hollow Core Slabs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Golden Principles for Designing BWICs guide?
What is the Golden Principles for Designing BWICs guide?
The document is a practical guidance resource, created by Quelfire, designed to help teams consider firestopping earlier during the design process - particularly around service spacing, aperture sizing, coordination, and installability.
Who is this document intended for?
Who is this document intended for?
This guide has primarily been written for MEP Designers, although it will also be useful to Architects, Main Contractors, Fire Engineers, Passive Fire Protection Specialists, and Design Coordination Teams.
What does BWIC mean?
What does BWIC mean?
BWIC stands for Builders Work in Connection - typically referring to openings, penetrations, apertures, and associated construction requirements needed to accommodate building services.
Is this a compliance guide?
Is this a compliance guide?
No. The document is intended as practical industry guidance to encourage earlier consideration of firestopping constraints and installation practicality. Tested evidence, manufacturer guidance, and project-specific requirements should always be reviewed separately.
Why was Version 2 created?
Why was Version 2 created?
Version 2 was developed following industry feedback and ongoing project experience, with expanded guidance around:
- service spacing
- aperture sizing
- 0mm spacing conditions
- coordination challenges
- and practical installation considerations
Why is spacing such an important consideration?
Why is spacing such an important consideration?
A tested detail may technically permit minimum spacing requirements, but could be difficult to physically install due to conditions on site.
The guide helps explain how seal thicknesses, insulation, edge distances, and practical access can all affect the remaining usable space within an opening, and how best to prepare to ensure the suitable firestopping solution is easier to install.